The Regent Theatre has been placed on the NSW State Heritage Register.
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The listing was confirmed today by Member for Dubbo, Dugald Saunders.
Backed by a campaign of community support, Mr Saunders confirmed that the theatre has been formally recognised as an item of State heritage significance by Minister responsible for Heritage Don Harwin.
"This is a significant day for the Mudgee community and ensures a venue of immense importance will continue to be a reference point to the history of the region," Mr Saunders said.
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"I recently went for a look through the theatre and it is a grand location that really takes you back in time. It deserves its place on the heritage register and I think this is a big win for the Mudgee community."
Mr Harwin said the Regent Theatre is one of a handful of remaining regional theatres from the heyday of cinema in the state.
"The theatre retains a remarkable level of intact interiors, including the Art Deco fittings and fixtures in the foyer and auditorium," he said.
"I am delighted to approve this important piece of NSW's history in the heart of Mudgee on the State Heritage Register."
The Regent Theatre has been the topic of fierce debate among Mudgee residents with a contingent calling for the building to be purchased by Council.
At a meeting last week, Council resolved to recognise the historic significance of the building and encourage the NSW State Government to purchase it on behalf of the Mudgee community.
Any changes to the building in the future will require the approval of the Heritage Council of NSW.
The building will be sold at auction on Friday, March 6.
More to come.